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Rules of the Trail

Iowa boasts a world-class trails system that has some of the longest paved trails in the country.
Come ride Iowa's trails and experience what we have to offer.

Iowa leads the nation in Rail
to Trail conversions with over 1,400 miles of
extensive, interconnected multi-use trails.
The local terrain, with rolling hills, scenic waterways, prairies, and
forests, provides an excellent environment for recreational
cycling, running, skating, and walking.

Rules for Using Iowa's Trails

All Trail Users

Show courtesy to others.

Use the right side of the trail except when otherwise designated.

Obey all traffic signs and move to the side when looking at a scenic
view

Always pass on the left.

Follow all trail rules and hours.

Respect the rights of property owners

Keep pets on a leash and remove pet feces from trail

Travel with a buddy in case of an emergency

Bicyclists

Always wear a helmet

Yield to pedestrians and skaters

Give audible warning when passing other trails users. A friendly
greeting like "Hello, passing on your left", or ringing a
bell is considerate

Ride at a safe speed. Slow down and form a single file line in
congested areas, reduced visibility or other hazardous conditions.

for Bicyclists

Under Iowa Law, bicyclists must follow the same rules of the road as motorists

Always wear a helmet

Ride on the Right
Ride in the right hand lane, except when passing another vehicle,
preparing for a left hand turn, or avoiding hazards.

Never Ride Against TrafficAlways ride with the flow of traffic

Obey traffic signs and signals
Use hand signals to advise motorists you plan to turn, change lanes or
stop

Make eye contact with motorists
Never assume a motorist sees you or that you have the right-of-way.
Expect the unexpected such as; parked vehicles pulling into traffic;
vehicle doors opening into your path; and debris on the road.

At night, use a headlight, taillight and reflectors

for Motorists

Under Iowa Law, bicycles have a right to use Iowa's roads.

Do not honk your horn at bicyclists
They may be startled or lose control

Use extra caution when passing bicycles
Move entirely into the left lane; on a two-lane road; don't pass a
bicyclist if oncoming traffic is near.